Tomblin's chief of staff to join Bowles Rice

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- One of West Virginia's top law firms has hired Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin's former chief of staff.

Rob Alsop, who served as Tomblin's top aide for the past two and a half years, will start work as a lawyer at Bowles Rice on June 13, the law firm announced Wednesday.

Alsop will specialize in legal advocacy, government relations and public policy analysis.

"He will become a strategic adviser to many of our key clients, thanks to his experience, knowledge and outstanding judgment," said Tom Heywood, managing partner at Bowles Rice. "He is excellent at identifying important issues and resolving conflicts."

Alsop will work out of Bowles Rice's Charleston office for the firm's commercial and financial practice group and government relations team.

Alsop previously worked as revenue secretary during former Gov. Joe Manchin's administration. Alsop also was a lawyer with the Jackson Kelly law firm, and served as chief of staff to former Sen. Carte Goodwin, who briefly held the seat following the death of longtime Sen. Robert C. Byrd.

State Revenue Secretary Charlie Lorenson is replacing Alsop as the governor's chief of staff.